Bring Your Old UGG Boots Back to Life: A Step-by-Step Restoration Guide

If your favourite UGG boots are looking worse for wear—stained, scuffed, or flattened inside—you might be wondering if they’re beyond saving. Maybe they’ve been through a few too many rainy days, or the cosy inner lining isn’t so cosy anymore. Before you give up and buy a new pair, there’s good news: you can restore your UGGs and make them look (and feel) brand new again.

With the right cleaning methods, you can remove stains, revive the soft suede, and even bring back the fluffiness of the lining—all without damaging your boots. In this guide, you’ll learn the best way to clean, dry, and protect your UGGs so they last for years to come.

Let’s get started!

What You’ll Need

Before you start cleaning your UGGs, it’s important to have the right tools and products on hand. Using the wrong materials—like harsh detergents or excessive water—can ruin the suede and make your boots look worse. Here’s what you’ll need for a safe and effective restoration:

Cleaning Supplies:

• Soft-bristle brush or suede brush – Helps remove dirt, dust, and surface stains without damaging the suede.

• White cloth or sponge – Essential for gentle cleaning and blotting stains.

• Cold water – Warm or hot water can damage the suede, so always use cold.

• UGG Boot Clean and Care Kit – Specially formulated to clean and protect UGGs without stripping natural oils.

• White vinegar (optional) – Great for removing tough stains and salt marks.

• Cornflour or baking soda – Helps absorb grease stains.

For Drying and Restoring Shape:=

• Paper towels or clean, dry cloths – Used to stuff the boots while they dry to maintain their shape.

• Cool, dry place to air dry – Never use direct heat like hairdryers or heaters, as they can shrink or harden the suede.

• For Restoring the Inner Lining:

• Soft brush or pet brush – Helps fluff up the sheepskin lining.

• Fabric freshener or UGG boot deodoriser – Helps remove odours and refresh the inside.

For Protection After Cleaning:

• UGG Boots Repellent Spray – Creates a water-resistant barrier to prevent future stains.

Once you have everything ready, it’s time to start the restoration process.

Step 1: Prepping the Boots

Before you start cleaning, it’s important to prepare your UGGs properly. This step removes loose dirt, prevents stains from spreading, and ensures the best results.

Brush Off Dirt and Debris

Use a soft-bristle UGG Boots Brush or suede brush to gently sweep away dirt, dust, and dried mud.

Always brush in one direction to avoid damaging the suede.

If your boots are heavily soiled, tap them together outside to shake off excess dirt.

Remove Surface Stains

• For light stains, dampen a white cloth or sponge with cold water and gently blot the area—don’t rub, as this can spread the stain.

• For grease or oil stains, sprinkle cornflour or baking soda over the spot and let it sit for a few hours to absorb the oil. Brush off the powder afterwards.

Address Scuff Marks

• Use a suede brush or a clean, dry white eraser to buff out scuffs.

• Rub gently in a circular motion until the marks fade.

Prepare for Deep Cleaning

• Lightly dampen the entire exterior of the boots with cold water. This prevents water stains from forming when you clean.

• Avoid soaking them—UGGs should never be fully submerged in water.

  

Step 2: Cleaning the Exterior

Now that your UGGs are prepped, it’s time to remove deeper stains and refresh the suede. This step requires careful cleaning to avoid damaging the material.

Apply a Suede Cleaner (or DIY Alternative)

• If you have the UGG Boot Care Kit from UGG Originals, follow the instructions on the bottle.

• If using a DIY option, mix equal parts white vinegar and cold water in a small bowl.

• Lightly dampen a clean sponge or cloth with the solution—don’t soak it.

Gently Clean the Surface

• Start at the top of the boot and work your way down.

• Use gentle circular motions to lift dirt and stains—don’t scrub aggressively, as this can damage the suede.

• If needed, reapply cleaner to stubborn stains, but always use a light touch.

Rinse with Cold Water

Dampen a separate clean cloth with cold water and wipe away any excess cleaner.

Again, avoid soaking the boots—too much water can leave stains.

Remove Stubborn Stains

• For water stains, dampen the entire surface evenly with cold water and let it dry naturally (this helps blend the stain).

• For salt stains, use the vinegar and water solution to blot the area, then wipe clean.

• For ink or dye stains, try using a small amount of rubbing alcohol on a cotton swab and blot gently.

Step 3: Drying Properly

• Drying your UGGs the right way is crucial to prevent shrinking, hardening, or water stains. Rushing this step with heat can ruin the suede and affect the shape of your boots, so be patient and follow these steps carefully.

Remove Excess Moisture

• Use a dry, clean towel to gently press against the suede and soak up excess water.

• Do not twist, wring, or squeeze the boots—this can damage the material.

Reshape the Boots

• Stuff the boots with paper towels, a dry cloth, or a rolled-up T-shirt to help them keep their shape while drying.

• Avoid using newspaper, as the ink can transfer onto the lining.

Let Them Air Dry Naturally

• Place the boots in a cool, dry area away from direct heat and sunlight.

• Never use a hairdryer, radiator, heater, or tumble dryer, as heat can cause the suede to shrink and crack.

• Drying can take 24 to 48 hours, depending on how wet they are—be patient!

Fluff Up the Suede Once Dry

Once the boots are completely dry, use a suede brush to restore the soft, velvety texture.

Brush lightly in one direction to revive the nap (the raised fibres of the suede).

Step 4: Fluffing the Inside

Over time, the soft wool lining inside your UGGs can become flat, matted, and less comfortable. Luckily, you can restore its fluffiness with a few simple tricks.

Brush the Lining

• Use a soft-bristle brush, pet brush, or clean toothbrush to gently lift and separate the wool fibres.

• Work in small sections, brushing lightly to avoid pulling the wool out.

Remove Odours

• Sprinkle baking soda or cornstarch inside the boots and let it sit for a few hours (or overnight) to absorb odours and moisture.

• Shake out or vacuum the excess powder before wearing.

Freshen Up the Lining

• Lightly spritz the inside with a fabric freshener or UGG deodoriser to eliminate lingering smells.

• Avoid using strong perfumes or sprays with harsh chemicals, as they can affect the natural sheepskin.

By restoring the softness of the lining, your UGGs will feel just as warm and cosy as they did when you first bought them.

Step 5: Protecting and Maintaining Your UGGs

Now that your UGGs are clean and fresh, the final step is to protect them from future stains and damage. With the right care, you can keep them looking brand new for longer.

Apply a Suede Protector Spray

• Once your boots are completely dry, spray them evenly with a suede or sheepskin protector.

• Hold the bottle 15–20 cm away and apply a light, even coat—don’t oversaturate the suede.

• Let them air dry for at least 24 hours before wearing.

Brush the Suede Regularly

• Use a suede brush to remove dust and keep the nap (texture) soft and even.

• Brush in one direction to prevent flattening the fibres.

Keep Them Dry

UGGs aren’t designed for rain or snow, so avoid wearing them in wet conditions.

If they do get damp, let them air dry naturally—never use direct heat.

Store Them Properly

• Store your UGGs in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight to prevent fading.

• Stuff them with paper towels or a boot shaper to help maintain their shape.

Clean Them Regularly

• Spot-clean stains as soon as possible to prevent them from setting.

• Follow the full cleaning routine every few months or as needed.

Final Thoughts: Give Your UGGs a New Lease on Life

Restoring your old UGG boots is easier than you might think—all it takes is the right approach and a little patience. By following these steps, you can remove stains, refresh the suede, and bring back that soft, cosy feel inside. Instead of tossing out your favourite pair, you can extend their life and keep them looking as good as new.

The key to maintaining fresh, clean UGGs is regular care. Brushing the suede, using a protector spray, and storing them properly will help prevent stains and wear. And if they do get dirty? Now you know exactly how to bring them back to life—without expensive professional cleaning or replacements.

If you're looking for high-quality UGG cleaning products to make the process even easier, check out UGG Originals. They offer suede cleaners, conditioners, and protectors designed specifically to keep your UGGs in top condition.

So before you consider replacing your old UGGs, give them a little TLC. With the right care, they’ll stay warm, stylish, and comfortable for years to come!